Egyptian Clubs Al Ahly, Pyramids Face South African Rivals in Champions League Semis

The African Champions League semi-finals feature two Egyptian teams, Al Ahly and Pyramids, facing South African opponents Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates in a notable bilateral showdown. Defending champions Al Ahly, with 12 previous titles, are seeking a fifth championship in six seasons but enter the tie as underdogs after a lackluster group stage and recent criticism of their coach Marcel Koller. Mamelodi Sundowns, despite past successes against Ahly, have struggled to convert strong group performances into knockout victories. Meanwhile, Pyramids, bolstered by significant Saudi investment and rapid progress in Egyptian football, hope to assert themselves against the Pirates, who remain unbeaten away in North Africa this season. The semi-final first legs take place in South Africa, with return matches in Cairo determining who advances to the two-legged final. Both encounters highlight the shifting dynamics and rising ambitions within African club football.